Some had criticised the Uruguayan's inclusion due to several off-field controversies but Barnes is adamant that nothing outside of the players' performances on the pitch should be counted.

"The PFA Player of the Year isn't about the most morally perfect person so Suarez has every chance of winning," he told Ian Wright on Absolute Radio's 'Rock N Roll Football'.

"Everything outside of football is minor when you're judging on the player's ability.

"Yes, Van Persie has been fantastic but he's in a great side. If you're talking about players that have made the most impact for their club and the squad that they are in I would say Suarez has to be a favourite."

Bale, Hazard, Romelu Lukaku, Danny Welbeck, Jack Wilshere and Christian Benteke are the nominees for the Young Player of the Year award.